Shark Conservation Week

Tuesday, July 31, 2012 — 9:00am - 4:00pm
Most activities are free with the price of regular admission. Check events individually for additional information or fees.

They are an ancient species with a lineage that extends back millions of years. They are perfectly adapted to their environment. They inspire fear and fascination. They are sharks.

But due to prejudice, habitat destruction, climate change and over-hunting, sharks are rapidly becoming one of the most imperiled creatures on Earth. Every year, humans harvest millions of sharks from the world's oceans, sometimes for food or sport, often due to a misunderstanding or prejudice against the species. This year, join the Aquarium in the spirit of stewardship and help us raise awareness about sharks, both along the Oregon coast and throughout the world.

Activities & Opportunities

Shark Conservation Week runs from Monday, July 30 through Sunday, August 5, 2012 during the Aquarium's regular business hours. The majority of special events will be held on Saturday and Sunday, August 4 & 5.

Throughout the entire Aquarium, our guests can enjoy a variety of self-guided activities, events, crafts and educational opportunities that will help you become a "Shark Steward." Examples include free presentations by shark experts, a special children's booksigning, a daycamp program for kids, "mini" shark-related art classes with a wildlife illustrator, a Sleeping with the Sharks program for families and behind-the-scenes tours.

Watch this page as additional information will be posted as the date approaches. For questions, contact us at education@aquarium.org.

Special Weekend Events

Saturday, August 4

"The Shark Riddle:" The second episode in The Riddle Solvers series, this a half-hour shark film is fun for the whole family, featuring HD footage of over 20 shark species. The movie was crafted as a co-production between Sisbro Studios, LLC and the Save Our Seas Foundation. Showtimes are 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in the Gleason Events Room. Shark-related activities for kids follow each presentation.
Drawing Sharks with Ron Houchens: Acclaimed Newport artist Ron Houchens offers "mini" art lessons on how visitors of all ages can draw sharks. Look for Ron's display near the entrance of the Passages of the Deep tunnels. Ongoing from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 5

"Everything Sharks:" Ruth Musgrave offers this kid-friendly presentation on saving the ocean's sharks. Musgrave is the author of National Geographic Kids: Everything Sharks. A booksigning will follow the formal presentation. Copies of Everything Sharks will be available for sale in the Aquarium Gift Shops. Times: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. in the Gleason Events Room.
Drawing Sharks with Ron Houchens: See description above. Ongoing from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Learn More About Sharks:

Check out these pages on our website and learn more about these shark species, some of which can be viewed at the Aquarium.